PROCLAMATION
RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 17 THROUGH MARCH 3, 2026, AS
LUNAR NEW YEAR IN THE CITY OF HERCULES
WHEREAS, Lunar New Year is a celebration with roots tied in East and Southeast Asian countries including China, Vietnam, Korea and the Asian diaspora; and while celebrations and traditions vary with each unique history and customs; festivities share universal themes of reflection, renewal, togetherness and prosperity for the new year. This year is represented by the Fire Horse, characterizing intense energy, passion, resilience and transformation; and WHEREAS, Lunar New Year festivities have been carried on for centuries in Asia, the Asian diaspora across the globe continued to preserve and share traditions; and the blending of local culture with ancestral heritage created new variations of Lunar New traditions; and this influence and adaptation is reflective of a universal history of resilience, connection and the journey of human movement and cultural exchange; and WHEREAS, The City of Hercules has a deep history and highly diverse Asian diaspora ranging from long-establish families to recent immigrants and continues to shape the fabric of our community; makes up approximately 45 percent of the City’s population and is the largest ethnic (Non-Hispanic) group in the City; and WHEREAS, the Hercules City Council wishes all those who observe this holiday good health; happiness and prosperity as we welcome Lunar New Year and the year of the Fire Horse; and WHEREAS, the City of Hercules is proud to hold its second Lunar New Year celebration with a Parade and Festival on March 1, 2026; and invites residents, friends and loved ones to join in the festivities and take part in the rich cultural diversity that makes up the fabric of this community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that I, Chris Kelley, Mayor of the City of Hercules, on behalf of the entire City Council and the Hercules community, do hereby recognize February 17 through March 3, 2026 as Lunar New Year in the City of Hercules and invite all to reaffirm our community’s commitment to family, diversity, mutual respect and create an inclusive environment of belonging for all our residents.
In witness whereof, I hereunto set my hand and cause the Seal of the City of Hercules to be affixed this 25th day of February 2026.
Chris Kelley, Mayor